Best El Rancho Grande Recipes

RIO GRANDE VALLEY STYLE CARNE GUISADA

Steps:

• Cube meat (about 1"), removing all fat and gristle.
• Sear meat in oil.
• Add water and cook on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Toast cumin seeds in a small sauté skillet on medium-high until they begin to smoke slightly.
• Grind the hot cumin seeds with a mortar and pestle.
• Add oregano, ground toasted cumin, black pepper, salt and garlic to the meat.
• Add vegetables (bell pepper, onion and tomato) and continue to cook about 30 minutes.
• Add tomato sauce, chili powder and paprika.
• Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
• While the meat is simmering, heat 2 tbsp oil in a small sauté pan and add flour over medium-low heat.
• Stir the flour and oil constantly until the flour turns a light golden brown (roux).
• Add the roux to the meat and continue to simmer for about another 30 minutes.
• Serve carne guisada with rice and beans and flour or corn tortillas.
• Note: can speed the cooking time by using a pressure cooker.

COPYCAT DON PABLOS SALSA

Steps:

• Place tomatoes, onions, tomato paste, water, garlic powder, cilantro, cumin, salt and sugar in a blender or food processor.
• Puree until smooth.
• Add remaining measure of tomatoes and mix till blended. (Fresh, diced tomatoes may be substituded for diced canned tomatoes.)
• Add optional jalepeno peppers to taste.